Some situations make you feel like you’re in a paper bag that you SHOULD be able to break out of, but can’t.
The ‘growing up’ of my faith has come in many different forms, with a goodly portion of them NOT being them pain free. Yes there are times of freedom and times of joy and thankfulness, but this business of “counting it all joy” in the middle of trouble – well. Let’s just say that I clearly still need work in that area!
I saw an old friend this morning and told her about a current situation whereupon she reminded me (complete with cheeky smile) to pray for the person at the heart of my distress. Fact is – I hadn’t thought of that. ‘nother fact is – I didn’t want to either. ‘nother fact is – I still dont want to.
But I’m grateful for her gentle reproof because I have thought on it most of the day. And am working my way there.
I just looked up ‘perseverance’… and have read some familiar words in new ways so fresh hope and new things to be grateful for are emerging.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
So if you happen to be a pray-er, help me get there OK?